nullify

[nuhl-uh-fahy]

verb (used with object), nul·li·fied, nul·li·fy·ing.

to render or declare legally void or inoperative: to nullify a contract.
to deprive (something) of value or effectiveness; make futile or of no consequence.

Origin of nullify

First recorded in 1585–95, nullify is from the Late Latin word nūllificāre to despise. See nulli-, -fy

Related formsnul·li·fi·er, nounre·nul·li·fy, verb (used with object), re·nul·li·fied, re·nul·li·fy·ing.un·nul·li·fied, adjective

Synonyms for nullify

1, 2. invalidate, annul, void, cancel.

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2018

Related Words for nullifies

invalidate, annul, veto, void, undo, abolish, restrict, quash, offset, negate, abrogate, repeal, rescind, torpedo, countervail, scrub, abate, neutralize, scratch, squash

Examples from the Web for nullifies

Contemporary Examples of nullifies

Keep making fun of the Citizens United ruling; that needs 365 24/7 attention until Congress passes a law that nullifies it.
#ColbertCash: What Should Stephen Colbert Do With His $1 Million in Super-PAC Money?
Brian Ries, Sam Schlinkert
January 31, 2012

Historical Examples of nullifies

But of the smoke which nullifies and destroys all these things, not a word!
Impressions And Comments
Havelock Ellis
On the contrary, warning is given precisely against this treacherous and scandalous restriction which nullifies the commandment.
The Kingdom of God is Within You
Count Leo Tolstoy
Whether this upsets a theory, nullifies a sentimental protest, or merely stands as an exception, I should not dare guess.
The Land of Footprints
Stewart Edward White
This nullifies the treaty in all that relates to fugitive slaves guilty of crimes against their masters.
Thirty Years' View (Vol. II of 2)
Thomas Hart Benton
This is the opinion of South Carolina; and on the strength of that opinion she nullifies the laws.
Thirty Years' View (Vol. I of 2)
Thomas Hart Benton

British Dictionary definitions for nullifies

nullify

verb -fies, -fying or -fied (tr)

to render legally void or of no effect
to render ineffective or useless; cancel out

Derived Formsnullification, nounnullifier, noun

Word Origin for nullify

C16: from Late Latin nullificāre to despise, from Latin nullus of no account + facere to make

Collins English Dictionary - Complete & Unabridged 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Word Origin and History for nullifies

nullify

1590s, from Late Latin nullificare "to esteem lightly, despise," literally "to make nothing," from Latin nullus "not any" (see null) + root of facere "to make" (see factitious). Related: Nullified; nullifying.